Legend

Instructions
Use the legend to the right to toggle the layers of the map on and off. Roll over the points on the map and click for more information. You may also click the Upper, Middle & Lower tabs at the top to focus on specific areas of the map.

Navigating the Delaware River Water Trail Map

The head of the water trail begins in Hancock, N.Y. and flows South through
Delaware Water Gap to Trentn, N.J.

Upper
The Upper trail spans from Hancock, N.Y. to Port Jervis, N.Y.

Middle
The Middle section runs from Port Jervis, N.Y. to the Delaware Water Gap.

Lower
The Lower portion spans from the Delaware Water Gap to Trenton, N.J.

Upper Delaware River

The Upper Delaware is a mountain river known for its trout fishing waters, stunning scenery, and whitewater paddling. It is one of the most popular paddling destinations in the northeastern United States. River travelers are treated to views of dramatic cliffs and rock formations such as Hawks Nest and Elephant Rocks. On any given day, one can expect to see bald eagles, osprey, and even the occasional deer. Bear sightings are extremely rare.

Although the Upper Delaware is known for its whitewater and draws heavy traffic during warm weather months, the first 30 miles below Hancock feature a series of shallow riffles and pools. Upstream reservoir releases produce cold water temperatures, even in the middle of summer.

The Middle Delaware River is for those recreational users who wish to enjoy a more solitary river experience in a relatively untamed setting. It stands apart from the upper and lower sections, because most of this stretch of river and the land around it is part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (DWGNRA). It is managed by the National Park Service.

This section of river makes it ideal for beginners to develop paddling and river reading skills. The Middle Delaware features long pools and brief stretches of shallow riffles with only a few notable rapids. Paddlers of all skill levels appreciate the Middle Delaware's peaceful beauty.

The lower non-tidal Delaware River is the longest and most populated of the three sections, stretching nearly 76 miles from just below the Delaware Water Gap to the tidal waters at Trenton, New Jersey and Morrisville, Pennsylvania.

The cultural landscape encompasses a rich tapestry of historic towns and small cities, canals, bridges, factories and farms. There are plenty of opportunities for dining, lodging, and shopping near the river on the Pennsylvania and New Jersey sides. Scenic vistas of rocky bluffs, forested islands, and river banks steeped in history greet recreational users.

The Lower Delaware is a popular destination for motorboats of all types. Personal water craft (jet-ski) use is allowed, and its use is extensive. Paddlers need to be aware of other boaters and use caution when running a section of the river that is heavily used by power boaters.